This position is a Biological Science Technician, GS- 0404-5/6 working in Ludington, Michigan for the Ludington Biological Station or Marquette, Michigan for the Marquette Biological Station.
Please see additional information section for further information on this Career Seasonal Appointment.
Summary
This position is a Biological Science Technician, GS- 0404-5/6 working in Ludington, Michigan for the Ludington Biological Station or Marquette, Michigan for the Marquette Biological Station.
Please see additional information section for further information on this Career Seasonal Appointment.
As a Biological Science Technician your duties will include, but are not limited to, the following:
In a developmental capacity, incumbent works with senior staff to help lead 1-3 (and occasionally more) same and lower grade employees and contractors at remote locations to complete established work plan objectives and tasks according to established Program protocols. Adjusts schedules to adapt to variable weather, water and access conditions to maximize efficiency. Locates sampling sites and ensures adequacy of sampling within protocols. Coordinates, reviews work, and ensures completion of the daily fieldwork of same and lower grade employees and contractors at remote locations without direct daily contact with supervisor.
In a higher graded capacity leads 1-3 (and occasionally more) same and lower grade employees and contractors at remote locations to complete established work plan objectives and tasks according to established Program protocols. Adjusts schedules to adapt to variable weather, water and access conditions to maximize efficiency. Locates sampling sites and ensures adequacy of sampling within protocols. Coordinates, reviews work, and ensures completion of the daily fieldwork of same and lower grade employees and contractors at remote locations without direct daily contact with supervisor.
Works with senior staff to provide technical support and participate with other team members to conduct lampricide treatments, alternative controls, and assessment operations including pesticide application, chemical analysis of water, quality assurance procedures, bioassay tests, measurement of stream flow characteristics, velocity and discharge, sea lamprey sterilization, collection of biological specimens, instream and offshore assessments, studies to determine the distribution, growth and abundance of sea lampreys in the larval, parasitic and spawning life stages, and to measure the effect of lamprey control to non target species.
Provides technical support and participates with other team members to conduct lampricide treatments, alternative controls, and assessment operations including pesticide application, chemical analysis of water, quality assurance procedures, bioassay tests, measurement of stream flow characteristics, velocity and discharge, sea lamprey sterilization, collection of biological specimens, instream and offshore assessments, studies to determine the distribution, growth and abundance of sea lampreys in the larval, parasitic and spawning life stages, and to measure the effect of lamprey control to non target species.
Collects, measures, and records biological, physical, environmental, and geographical data. Records observed conditions that would affect the interpretation of data derived from samples. Prepares draft reports involving the tabulation or collection of data with comments on surrounding environments and conditions that could affect Program activities,
Uses software including word processing, spreadsheet and databases to document activities (e.g., track equipment, log entries, review and proof data). Uses a variety of tools including maps, compass, GPS, computer and other resources to navigate in both populated and remote areas. Develops maps and other illustrative material using geographic information systems and other computer technology to interpret and utilize geographical data.
Performs chemical analysis of applied larmpricides with calorimetric methods or high performance liquid chromatography and monitors lampricide concentrations. Adjusts lampricide application rates within pre-established targets.
Resume (See "Required Documents"). Failure to provide ALL required information on your resume will result in loss of consideration due to an incomplete application package. It is your responsibility to ensure all information is provided on resume.
Eligibility and Supporting documents - You will ONLY be considered for the eligibilities that you select "yes" to AND submit the required supporting documentation, as listed in the Required Documents section.
Suitability for employment, as determined by background investigation.
Medical Requirements: Selectees must pass a pre-employment medical examination and may be subject to post-employment medical examinations to determine if they are maintaining the fitness standards for this position.
This position is subject to medical examination under the Sea Lamprey Control Program. The candidate must meet medical standards to assure the ability to perform field work safely.
Certification: Ability to obtain certification in ATV operation, motorboat operation and safety, defensive driving, electrofishing, first aid and CPR.
Uniform: Official U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service uniform may required.
Probationary Period: Selectees may be required to successfully complete a probationary period.
Certification: Incumbent may be required to be a certified pesticide applicator.
Travel: May be required to work extensive Field travel 20 or more nights per month.
Individuals assigned male at birth after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service. To verify registration, visit SSS.gov.
Driver's License: Selectees will be required to possess and maintain a valid State driver's license at all times during their tenure.
Qualifications
Only experience and education obtained by 02/07/2024 will be considered.
In order to qualify for this position you must possess the Minimum Qualification.
Minimum Qualification [GS-5]
One year of specialized experience comparable in scope and responsibility equivalent to grade GS-4 in the Federal service related to aquatics and/or Fisheries. Examples of qualifying specialized experience include leading others as part of a technical team to accomplish aquatic or fisheries related objectives, collecting and recording biological, physical, or environmental data in an aquatic or fisheries related field setting; the operation, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of sampling devices related to aquatic or fisheries related work; and ability to use computer software to manage and analyze data and draft scientific reports. OR
Have successfully completed a full 4-year course of study leading to a bachelor's degree with major study or at least 24 semester hours in any combination of courses such as biology, chemistry, statistics, entomology, animal husbandry, botany, physics, agriculture, or mathematics. At least 6 semester hours of courses must have been directly related to this occupation such as ichthyology, invertebrate zoology, wildlife biology, fish and wildlife management, etc.. OR
A combination of education and experience as described in 1 and 2 above which together equals 100% of the requirement
Minimum Qualification [GS-6]
One year of specialized experience comparable in scope and responsibility equivalent to grade GS-5 in the Federal service related to aquatics and/or Fisheries. Examples of qualifying specialized experience should include leading others as part of a technical team to accomplish aquatic or fisheries related objectives, collecting, recording and entering biological, physical, or environmental data in an aquatic or fisheries related field setting; the operation, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of sampling devices related to aquatic or fisheries related work; training of field staff on standard operating procedures and equipment use; conducting program outreach to user groups and general public; and ability to use computer software to manage and analyze data and draft scientific reports.
One full year (18 hours) of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master's or equivalent graduate degree directly related to the position being advertised.
A combination of graduate level education and specialized experience directly related to the position as described above.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education
PROOF OF EDUCATION: All applicants who are using education or a combination of education and experience to qualify must submit copies of official or unofficial transcripts which include grades, credit hours earned, major(s), grade point average or class ranking, institution name, and student name. If any required coursework is not easily recognizable on transcripts, or if you believe a portion of a particular course can be credited toward meeting an educational requirement, you must also provide a memorandum on letterhead from the institution's registrar, dean, or other appropriate official stating the percentage of the course that should be considered to meet the requirement and the equivalent number of units. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable; however, if you are selected for the position, you will be required to produce the original official transcripts.
PASS/FAIL COURSES: If more than 10 percent of your undergraduate course work (credit hours) were taken on a pass/fail basis, your claim of superior academic achievement must be based upon class standing or membership in an honor society.
GRADUATE EDUCATION: One academic year of graduate education is considered to be the number of credits hours your graduate school has determined to represent one academic year of full-time study. Such study may have been performed on a full-time or part-time basis. If you cannot obtain your graduate school's definition of one year of graduate study, 18 semester hours (or 27 quarter hours) should be considered as satisfying the requirement for one year of full-time graduate study.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education. For further information, visit: Recognition of Foreign Qualifications | International Affairs Office (ed.gov)
Additional information
This is a Career-Seasonal position. Career-Seasonal appointments are permanent positions and include the same benefits as Career appointments, but do not provide work on a year-round basis. Selectee is guaranteed to work at least 6 months per year but not more than 50 weeks per year, with the work schedule determined upon appointment. Work schedule and periods of non-pay status are contingent upon funding and operational needs.
PCS INFORMATION:
-No PCS entitlements authorized
Telework:
-This position is suitable for telework only in an emergency or natural disaster.
Additional Vacancies: One or more positions may be filled from applications received under this announcement in the advertised office or other U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service offices in the local commuting area.
Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP):Department of Interior (DOI) Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) procedures apply in filling this vacancy. CTAP/ICTAP provides placement assistance to permanent Federal employees who are surplus, displaced, or involuntarily separated. Applicants claiming CTAP/ICTAP eligibility must submit a copy of their most recent performance appraisal, proof of eligibility, and most current SF-50 noting position, grade level, and duty location with their application. To be considered under CTAP/ICTAP, applicants must be well-qualified (i.e., meet the minimum qualification requirements, including any selective placement factors; education, and experience requirements), score at least 85 on the assessment questionnaire, and be able to perform the duties of the position upon entry.
For information on CTAP and ICTAP visit: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/working-in-government/unique-hiring-paths/federal-employees/career-transition/"
Reasonable Accommodation:The USFWS provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. Please visit USAJOBS Help Center | Reasonable accommodation policy if you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications outlined above.
Once the announcement has closed, a review of your resume and supporting documentation will be used to determine whether you meet the qualification requirements listed on this announcement. If you meet the qualifications your resume and supporting documentation will be compared against your responses to the assessment questionnaire to determine your level of experience. Note: If, after reviewing your resume and supporting documentation, a determination is made that you have inflated your qualifications which resulted in you being listed in the highest quality category, you may lose consideration, or be assigned to a lower quality category for this position. Please follow all instructions carefully when applying, errors or omissions may affect your eligibility.
Your qualifications will be evaluated on the following competencies (knowledge, skills, abilities and other characteristics):
Knowledge of the technical application of fish biology and life history of sea lampreys.
Skill in the development, use, evaluation and modification of a variety of sampling gear.
Ability to record, summarize and analyze technical data.
Knowledge and ability to implement field experiments.
All qualified candidates will be assigned to a quality category. The category assignment is a measure of the degree in which your background matches the competencies required for this position. The category ratings for this position are: Best Qualified, Well Qualified, and Qualified
The category rating process protects the rights of veterans by placing them ahead of non-preference eligibles within each quality category. Veterans' preference eligibles who meet the qualification requirements and who have a compensable service-connected disability of at least 10 percent will be listed in the highest quality category (except in the case of scientific or professional positions at the GS-09 level or higher).
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
You must submit a complete application package. We will not make assumptions about your experience and/or education.
Required Document:
Resume:You are highly encouraged to use USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required information is included in your Resume. If you use your own resume, curriculum vitae, or any other written form you choose then you must describe:
Your job-related qualifications that includes beginning and ending dates for paid and non-paid work experience,
Hours worked per week, month and year of employment for each job title listed, and description of job duties.
Salary information (if applicable)
Name and address of employer, supervisor name and telephone number.
Additional information on what to include can be found here. Your experience needs to address every required qualification. Note: Failure to provide ALL required information on your resume will result in loss of consideration due to an incomplete application package.
Additional Documentation, if applicable: 1. Cover Letter
2. College Transcripts: Please refer to the education section above for additional information. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. A copy of your official transcripts may be required if you are selected.
3. Veterans' Preference Documentation: If you are a veteran with preference eligibility and you are claiming 5-point veterans' preference, you must attach a copy of your DD-214 Member Copy 2 or 4 showing you were honorably discharged. If you are claiming 10-point veterans' preference, attach an SF-15, Application for 10-Point Veterans' Preference in addition to the proof required by that form (i.e. VA letter). You may not be awarded preference if you do not attach the correct Veteran Documentation as specified above.
4. CTAP/ICTAP Documentation: If you are applying under CTAP or ICTAP, you MUST submit proof of eligibility under 5 CFR 330.602(a) for CTAP and 5 CFR 330.704 for ICTAP. This includes a copy of the agency notice, a copy of your most recent performance rating, and a copy of your most recent SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) showing your position, grade level, and duty location. Please annotate your application to reflect that you are applying as a CTAP or ICTAP eligible.
Failure to submit any of the above-mentioned required documents may result in loss of consideration due to an incomplete application package. It is your responsibility to ensure all required documents have been submitted.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Review the appointment eligibility criteria in the application preview linked below. The eligibility section of the application allows you to choose how you wish to be considered for this vacancy announcement. You will ONLY be considered for the eligibilities that you select "yes" to and submit the required supporting documentation, as listed in the Required Documents section or the application text.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package. See required documents section.
Click 'Apply' to create an account or log in to your existing USAJOBS account.
Please ensure you check the acknowledgement checkbox then click the Submit Application button to submit your application.
Applications must be received by 02/07/2024 ,11:59pm ET to receive consideration.
Check application status by logging into your USAJOBS account, in Applications tab, click the position title you applied to for the status. For information on what each Application Status means, visit: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/application/status/.
If you are unable to apply online, you must request an alternative application which is available from the Human Resources Office. Please contact the Human Resources Office via email at fwshiring@fws.gov.
Division of Human Resources
5600 American Blvd, West Suite 990
Bloomington, MN 55437
US
Next steps
Based on your application and your responses to the application questionnaire, you may be presented with instructions on how to access the USA Hire system to complete the online assessments. The online assessments must be completed within 48 hours following the close of this announcement. You will have the opportunity to request a testing accommodation for the assessment should you have a disability covered under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended. Your assessment results will be kept on record for one year and used toward future positions for which you might apply that require the same assessments.
Once you submit all the required documents and the online application in USAJOBS, you will receive an acknowledgement email that your submission was successful. After the evaluation process is complete, you will be notified of your status and/or referral to the hiring official. If further evaluation or interviews are required, you will be contacted by the hiring official.
You will be notified if this job is filled or canceled.
Timelines for this process vary widely.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging in to your USAJOBS account as we will not be responding to inquiries about the status of applications as long as the system has been updated.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
You must submit a complete application package. We will not make assumptions about your experience and/or education.
Required Document:
Resume:You are highly encouraged to use USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required information is included in your Resume. If you use your own resume, curriculum vitae, or any other written form you choose then you must describe:
Your job-related qualifications that includes beginning and ending dates for paid and non-paid work experience,
Hours worked per week, month and year of employment for each job title listed, and description of job duties.
Salary information (if applicable)
Name and address of employer, supervisor name and telephone number.
Additional information on what to include can be found here. Your experience needs to address every required qualification. Note: Failure to provide ALL required information on your resume will result in loss of consideration due to an incomplete application package.
Additional Documentation, if applicable: 1. Cover Letter
2. College Transcripts: Please refer to the education section above for additional information. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. A copy of your official transcripts may be required if you are selected.
3. Veterans' Preference Documentation: If you are a veteran with preference eligibility and you are claiming 5-point veterans' preference, you must attach a copy of your DD-214 Member Copy 2 or 4 showing you were honorably discharged. If you are claiming 10-point veterans' preference, attach an SF-15, Application for 10-Point Veterans' Preference in addition to the proof required by that form (i.e. VA letter). You may not be awarded preference if you do not attach the correct Veteran Documentation as specified above.
4. CTAP/ICTAP Documentation: If you are applying under CTAP or ICTAP, you MUST submit proof of eligibility under 5 CFR 330.602(a) for CTAP and 5 CFR 330.704 for ICTAP. This includes a copy of the agency notice, a copy of your most recent performance rating, and a copy of your most recent SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) showing your position, grade level, and duty location. Please annotate your application to reflect that you are applying as a CTAP or ICTAP eligible.
Failure to submit any of the above-mentioned required documents may result in loss of consideration due to an incomplete application package. It is your responsibility to ensure all required documents have been submitted.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Review the appointment eligibility criteria in the application preview linked below. The eligibility section of the application allows you to choose how you wish to be considered for this vacancy announcement. You will ONLY be considered for the eligibilities that you select "yes" to and submit the required supporting documentation, as listed in the Required Documents section or the application text.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package. See required documents section.
Click 'Apply' to create an account or log in to your existing USAJOBS account.
Please ensure you check the acknowledgement checkbox then click the Submit Application button to submit your application.
Applications must be received by 02/07/2024 ,11:59pm ET to receive consideration.
Check application status by logging into your USAJOBS account, in Applications tab, click the position title you applied to for the status. For information on what each Application Status means, visit: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/application/status/.
If you are unable to apply online, you must request an alternative application which is available from the Human Resources Office. Please contact the Human Resources Office via email at fwshiring@fws.gov.
Division of Human Resources
5600 American Blvd, West Suite 990
Bloomington, MN 55437
US
Next steps
Based on your application and your responses to the application questionnaire, you may be presented with instructions on how to access the USA Hire system to complete the online assessments. The online assessments must be completed within 48 hours following the close of this announcement. You will have the opportunity to request a testing accommodation for the assessment should you have a disability covered under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended. Your assessment results will be kept on record for one year and used toward future positions for which you might apply that require the same assessments.
Once you submit all the required documents and the online application in USAJOBS, you will receive an acknowledgement email that your submission was successful. After the evaluation process is complete, you will be notified of your status and/or referral to the hiring official. If further evaluation or interviews are required, you will be contacted by the hiring official.
You will be notified if this job is filled or canceled.
Timelines for this process vary widely.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging in to your USAJOBS account as we will not be responding to inquiries about the status of applications as long as the system has been updated.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
